ASSOCIATED RC8B3/RC8B3.1 FT 39.5MM FOX SHOCK BODY W/KASHIMA COATING - REAR (2) AS81165

Overview

The Associated RC8B3/RC8B3.1 FT 39.5mm FOX Shock Body with Kashima Coating – Rear (2) is a premium suspension component designed for competitive 1/8 scale off-road RC buggy racing in the UK and beyond. This is a genuine Team Associated Factory Team (FT) part that delivers the performance engineering expertise Team Associated has refined through years of competition development. If you're running an RC8B3 or RC8B3.1 and need replacement or upgrade shock bodies, this is the authentic OEM component trusted by racers worldwide.

These shock bodies are engineered to work seamlessly within the RC8B3 and RC8B3.1 suspension systems, which feature 7075-T6 hard anodised aluminium shock towers and finely tuned geometry for precise handling adjustments. The 39.5mm length makes these bodies ideal for rear suspension mounting, whilst the Kashima coating provides enhanced durability and reduced friction for consistent performance lap after lap. Whether you're a seasoned competitor preparing for ROAR nationals or a dedicated weekend racer looking to maintain your off-road RC buggy in peak condition, these shock bodies are an essential spare part or upgrade component.

Supplied as a pair, these factory-specification parts ensure your RC8B3 or RC8B3.1 buggy maintains the handling characteristics and suspension response that make these models so competitive. The Kashima coating—a genuine hard surface treatment—protects against wear and corrosion whilst improving the smooth operation of the shock internals, delivering more predictable damping performance across varied terrain and track conditions.

Key Features

• 39.5mm Length — These shock bodies measure 39.5mm, which is specifically sized for rear suspension mounting on RC8B3 and RC8B3.1 models. The correct length ensures proper suspension geometry and handling balance, preventing rubbing or binding in the suspension travel.
• FOX-Branded Design — These bodies carry the FOX brand designation, reflecting the high-performance suspension engineering associated with this trusted name in RC racing. FOX shock bodies are recognised for consistent performance and durability under competitive racing conditions.
• Kashima-Coated Finish — The Kashima coating is a hard-surface treatment applied to the shock body that reduces friction between moving parts, improves corrosion resistance, and extends the working life of the shock. This coating helps maintain smooth, predictable damping response even after extended racing sessions or exposure to moisture and dirt.
• 7075-T6 Aluminium Construction — Like all premium RC8B3 components, these shock bodies are machined from 7075-T6 hard anodised aluminium alloy, which provides exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and dimensional precision. This material ensures the shock bodies maintain tolerances and performance over thousands of impact cycles.
• Pair of Two Bodies — The package includes two shock bodies, allowing you to upgrade both rear shocks or maintain a spare set for competition events where reliability is paramount.
• Factory Team (FT) Specification — These are genuine Factory Team parts, meaning they meet the exacting standards Team Associated uses for their own race programmes. FT designation indicates this is top-tier racing equipment, not consumer-grade spares.
• Cross-Compatible Design — These shock bodies work with both the RC8B3 and RC8B3.1 models, providing flexibility if you own multiple versions of this buggy platform or plan to upgrade your chassis in future.

Technical Performance

The RC8B3/RC8B3.1 suspension system represents the culmination of Team Associated's engineering expertise in 1/8 scale off-road racing. The RC8B3 nitro buggy underwent extensive development before the electric RC8B3e was created, and both platforms feature identical suspension geometry and shock tower design. The 39.5mm shock bodies integrate with 7075-T6 aluminium 16mm Big Bore threaded shocks that are equipped with TiN-coated 3.5mm shafts, larger diameter precision springs, and optimised bladders for volume compensation. The rear shock towers are engineered with finely tuned shock mounting positions and upper arm locations that, combined with refined suspension geometry featuring lower hinge pin inserts, allow quick and easy roll centre adjustments. These shock bodies are part of a system that delivers superior damping consistency, precise handling response, and durable construction capable of withstanding the rigorous demands of competitive 1/8 scale racing. The Kashima coating specifically enhances performance by reducing friction within the shock, ensuring that damping characteristics remain predictable through long practice sessions, qualifying heats, and final races.

What's in the Box

• 2x Associated RC8B3/RC8B3.1 FT 39.5mm FOX Shock Bodies with Kashima Coating (rear)

Compatibility and Usage

These shock bodies are designed as replacement or upgrade components and are compatible with Team Associated RC8B3 and RC8B3.1 1/8 scale electric and nitro buggies. The RC8B3 and RC8B3.1 share exceptional parts compatibility across their platforms, making these bodies suitable whether you're running the nitro RC8B3, the electric RC8B3e, or the newer RC8B3.1 variants. Installation requires basic RC maintenance knowledge—removal of the old shock bodies and installation of the new units using standard RC tools. These bodies may also be compatible with RC8T3 and RC8T3.1 truggy models, though buyers should verify fitment with our team before purchase if using them outside the primary RC8B3/RC8B3.1 buggy application.

Why Quality Shock Components Matter

In competitive 1/8 scale off-road racing, suspension components are critical to performance. Shock bodies are structural elements that house damping fluids and support the internal piston and rod assemblies. Over time, shock bodies can wear, corrode, or suffer damage from impacts, reducing damping consistency and handling precision. By upgrading to genuine Factory Team shock bodies with Kashima coating, you ensure your buggy maintains the suspension response its chassis was engineered around. This is especially important if you're competing in ROAR events, club racing, or grassroots racing series where consistent performance directly translates to better lap times and race results. Even for recreational bashers, quality shock bodies improve the overall driving experience and reduce the need for frequent suspension maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Are these shock bodies suitable for the RC8B3 and RC8B3.1? — Yes, these 39.5mm FOX shock bodies with Kashima coating are designed for both RC8B3 and RC8B3.1 models. They are specifically intended for rear suspension mounting on both the nitro and electric versions of these buggies, ensuring proper handling geometry and suspension response.
• What is the Kashima coating and why does it matter? — Kashima is a hard-surface treatment applied to shock bodies that reduces friction, improves durability, and enhances corrosion resistance. This coating helps maintain consistent damping performance over extended racing periods and protects against wear caused by repeated compression cycles and exposure to moisture or dirt.
• Can I use these on other Team Associated models? — These 39.5mm bodies are primarily designed for RC8B3 and RC8B3.1 buggies. Whilst the RC8B3 and RC8T3 platforms share significant parts compatibility, and the RC8B3.1 and RC8T3.1 share compatibility, buyers should verify fitment before purchasing if using these bodies on truggy models or other Associated buggies.
• What tools do I need to install these shock bodies? — Installation requires basic RC maintenance tools including needle nose pliers, a hobby knife for any gasket removal, and standard metric hex drivers or hex bit sets. You may also need a ride height gauge to ensure proper suspension setup after installation.
• Are these available in other lengths? — Yes, Associated offers FOX shock bodies in different lengths. The 39.5mm bodies are specific to rear suspension applications. Front shocks on the RC8B3 typically use 30.5mm bodies (though this depends on your exact setup), and 16mm Big Bore threaded shock bodies are also available as the main structural component.
• Why buy genuine Factory Team parts instead of cheaper alternatives? — Factory Team parts are engineered and tested to the same standards Team Associated uses in their own race programmes. Genuine parts ensure proper fitment, consistent performance, and full compatibility with your buggy's suspension geometry. The Kashima coating and precision machining of 7075-T6 aluminium provide durability that budget alternatives cannot match, and in competitive racing, this reliability directly affects your results.
• Can I mix and match different shock body brands? — Mixing brands is not recommended for competitive racing, as different manufacturers may have slightly different internal dimensions, damping characteristics, or threading tolerances. Using matched sets of genuine Factory Team components ensures consistent handling and predictable suspension response across all four corners of your buggy.
• What is 7075-T6 hard anodised aluminium? — 7075-T6 is an aerospace-grade aluminium alloy that offers exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and dimensional stability. Hard anodising is a surface treatment that increases hardness, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. This combination makes 7075-T6 hard anodised ideal for precision RC racing components that must survive thousands of impact cycles whilst maintaining tight tolerances.

Why Buy from RC Model Shop?

RC Model Shop is a trusted UK RC retailer and authorised dealer for all the brands we stock, including Traxxas, ARRMA, Losi, FTX, Hobbywing, Spektrum and more. Based in Walsall, we have a physical store where customers are welcome to come in, view products and purchase in store. Whether you are a seasoned competitor, a weekend basher, or just discovering the world of RC for the first time, our team of experienced RC enthusiasts is here to help you find the perfect setup and provide ongoing support. Order the ASSOCIATED RC8B3/RC8B3.1 FT 39.5MM FOX SHOCK BODY W/KASHIMA COATING - REAR (2) AS81165 today with confidence, knowing you are buying from an authorised retailer with genuine products, expert knowledge and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Shop online or visit us in Walsall — we look forward to helping you get the most out of your RC experience.